Dachshund vs Norfolk Terrier
Hound · Small vs Terrier · Small
DachshundSmall
A spirited, clever, courageous badger-hunter on stubby legs — the iconic 'wiener dog'.
Weight: 16–32 lbsLifespan: 12–16 years
Norfolk TerrierSmall
A fearless, alert, gregarious drop-eared terrier — one of the smallest working terriers, fox-bolter.
Weight: 11–12 lbsLifespan: 12–16 years
Quick take
- • Dachshund is the larger breed at 16–32 lbs (males) vs 11–12 lbs for the Norfolk Terrier.
- • The Norfolk Terrier sheds less.
- • The Norfolk Terrier is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Dachshund | Norfolk Terrier |
|---|---|---|
Group | Hound | Terrier |
Size | Small | Small |
Origin | Germany | England |
Height (male) | 8–9" | 9–10" |
Height (female) | 8–9" | 9–10" |
Weight (male) | 16–32 lbs | 11–12 lbs |
Weight (female) | 16–32 lbs | 11–12 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 12–16 years | 12–16 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Trainability How quickly the breed learns commands. | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Intelligence Problem-solving ability. | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Exercise needs Daily physical activity required. | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Shedding Lower = less hair around your home. | Moderate (3/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Grooming effort Brushing, bathing, professional grooming. | Low (2/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Drooling Lower = drier face and furniture. | Very Low (1/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Barking How vocal the breed is. | Very High (5/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Good with kids | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Good with other dogs | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Good with strangers | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Protectiveness Watchdog tendencies. | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | High (4/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Coat length | short | wirehaired |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | No | Yes |
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About the Dachshund
The Dachshund is a spirited, clever, courageous badger-hunter on stubby legs — the iconic 'wiener dog'. Originally from Germany, this small hound breed typically weighs 16–32 lbs and lives 12–16 years. Breeders describe them as spunky, curious, friendly.
About the Norfolk Terrier
The Norfolk Terrier is a fearless, alert, gregarious drop-eared terrier — one of the smallest working terriers, fox-bolter. Originally from England, this small terrier breed typically weighs 11–12 lbs and lives 12–16 years. Breeders describe them as fearless, alert, gregarious.
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Dachshund health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • IVDD (back problems)
- • Obesity
- • Patellar luxation
- • Diabetes
Norfolk Terrier health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Patellar luxation
- • Eye problems